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We are so pleased to celebrate the achievements of the School of Education & Human Development’s outstanding master’s and doctoral graduates for Spring 2025! Their hard work and determination are inspiring. This year’s honorees represent a diverse range of programs and passions, united by a commitment to meaningful impact through education, research, and service.

Outstanding Graduate Q&A: Allie Lichota, M.A.

“It not only built my skills—it helped me feel ready for what’s next.”

Meet Allie Lichota, a recent graduate of CU Denver’s Research and Evaluation Methods program. With a lifelong passion for psychology and a growing interest in research, Allie pursued her master’s degree to build a strong foundation for a future in academia. Along the way, she found a community of support, inspiration, and hands-on learning that helped bring her goals into focus.

Q&A with Allie Lichota

Why did you choose CU Denver for your studies?

 I had just relocated to Colorado and knew I needed more research experience to reach my goal of pursuing a doctoral degree. A master’s in research methods seemed like a great fit, and the program at CU Denver was both accessible and aligned with my goals.

What sparked your interest in research and evaluation methods?

I’ve always loved research. Since high school, I’ve wanted to be a research psychologist. Gaining a strong foundation in research was really important to me, especially since research experience is critical for applying to psychology PhD programs.

What made your experience in the REM program special?

One of the things I appreciated most was how adaptable the program is to students’ individual research interests. I was able to focus many of my projects on psychology-oriented topics, which made the coursework feel very relevant. It was also inspiring to be in classes with students pursuing such a wide range of research areas.

What did you enjoy most about the REM program?

I really enjoyed the practical research and statistical experience I gained. It not only improved my skills in my current job but also helped me feel more prepared for future academic and professional opportunities.

What is your favorite memory from your time at CU Denver?

Interestingly, my favorite memory isn’t directly related to the REM program! I had the opportunity to participate in a CU Denver student film project last year. It was such a unique and fun experience, and I loved collaborating with the student filmmakers.

What was your favorite course, and why?

Measurement was probably my favorite course. I took it in my first semester, and it helped solidify concepts I had previously encountered in undergrad but hadn’t fully grasped. It was engaging and manageable, which made it a great introduction to the program.

How does it feel to be graduating?

I’m so happy to be graduating! This final semester has been particularly intense—I took an advanced statistics course and worked on a research project with faculty. It was an incredible learning experience, but I also feel like a huge weight has been lifted. I’m feeling very excited and optimistic about what’s next.

Would you recommend the REM program to others?

Absolutely. I would recommend this program to anyone interested in learning how to conduct research or who needs more experience in the field.

What advice would you give a prospective student?

 Prioritize building connections with professors and peers—even if most of your courses are online or you’re working while in school. Those relationships made a big difference for me, both in terms of success and overall enjoyment of the program.

What’s next for Allie?

Allie is currently working as a research assistant at CU Anschutz, where she contributes to healthcare-focused research projects. Looking ahead, she plans to apply to doctoral programs in clinical or counseling psychology this fall.

“My long-term goal is to become a professor and researcher,” she says. “Wish me luck!”

Outstanding Graduate: Crystal Luce, PhD

PhD in Education and Human Development, with a concentration in Research and Evaluation Methods (REM)
University of Colorado Denver | School of Education & Human Development

“Earning a PhD is a milestone—but it’s also a continuation of the work I’ve always felt called to do.”

Meet Dr. Crystal Luce, a researcher, evaluator, educator, and advocate whose work centers on equity, culturally responsive methods, and reimagining what research can be. Her time in CU Denver’s PhD program was marked by innovation, leadership, and a fierce commitment to using data and inquiry as tools for justice.

Q&A with Crystal Luce

Why did you pick CU Denver for your studies?

I chose CU Denver because I was seeking a doctoral program that centered equity and social justice—not just in theory, but in practice. After meeting with faculty and learning more about the School of Education & Human Development, I felt confident that the program would support my goals. I appreciated the opportunity to speak directly with professors, which gave me a clear sense that my values and vision would be taken seriously here.

What sparked your interest in earning a PhD with a concentration in Research and Evaluation Methods (REM)?

I was already working in program evaluation and found myself increasingly drawn to culturally responsive methods. I wanted to deepen my understanding of how research and evaluation could be used to challenge dominant narratives and support community-led change. The REM concentration aligned perfectly with my interests and allowed me to build on my existing experience while pushing my thinking further.

What made your experience in SEHD's PhD program special?

What truly made it special was the opportunity to learn, teach, and present my work at conferences—all while shaping my own academic path. I was given the flexibility to co-create courses that didn’t yet exist, which allowed me to explore areas I was passionate about and contribute to the program’s growth. That level of trust and collaboration made the experience feel deeply personal and empowering.

What does it feel like to be earning your doctoral degree?

People often ask what it feels like now that I’m done—and to be honest, part of me still feels like I’m not. I’m still learning, still applying what I’ve learned, and still helping others grow in their own research and evaluation journeys. Earning a PhD is a milestone, yes—but it’s also a continuation of the work I’ve always felt called to do.

What is your favorite memory at CU Denver?

One of my favorite memories was co-creating the first Culturally Responsive Evaluation course. It was incredibly meaningful to see students enroll after hearing about the class through our conversations. Watching the course grow each year—and seeing the interest and energy it generates—has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my time at CU Denver.

What was your favorite course, and why?

Though I enjoyed all of my classes, my favorite course was Research Methods in Ethnic Studies. It challenged me to think critically about the politics of knowledge production in ways that continue to shape my work today. I’ve applied what I learned in that course not only to my job, but also to the classes I now teach. It grounded me in methods that center historically marginalized communities and expanded my understanding of what research can be.

Would you recommend your SEHD program to others?

Absolutely. I would recommend the REM program to anyone who wants to use research and evaluation as a tool for change.

What advice would you give a prospective student?

Come in with curiosity, stay grounded in your values, and don’t be afraid to challenge conventions. The program will provide you with rigorous tools and methods—but you bring the heart, the vision, and the purpose.

What’s next for Crystal?

Crystal’s journey through CU Denver has been full of life milestones—earning her PhD, becoming a parent, receiving a promotion, and stepping into leadership at the national level.

She currently serves as:

• Chair of the Graduate Student and New Evaluators TIG
• Program Chair of the Quantitative Methods TIG with the American Evaluation Association
• President of the Colorado Evaluation Network

Her work is far from over. “I’ll continue working in the field, expanding my knowledge, and supporting others who are doing the same,” she says. “This isn’t the end—it’s just the next chapter.”

Outstanding Graduate: Devin Rodriguez

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in School Psychology
University of Colorado Denver | School of Education & Human Development

“It will challenge you to grow not just as a practitioner, but as a person.”

Meet Devin Rodriguez, a passionate advocate, counselor, and now graduate of CU Denver’s PsyD program in School Psychology. With a focus on bilingual and culturally responsive practice, Devin has spent the last several years preparing to serve students and communities with care, insight and deep commitment.

Q&A with Devin Rodriguez

What did you enjoy most about the PsyD program?

I most enjoyed the mentorship from my professors, supervisors and interdisciplinary colleagues. However, the camaraderie and support I shared with my peers meant everything.

Why did you pick CU Denver for your studies?

A mentor of mine who was a school psychologist told me about CU Denver’s program. He spoke highly of the professors and the program’s focus on experience-based learning. On interview day, I felt confident that this program would support my passion to serve students holistically within schools and communities.

What sparked your interest in pursuing a PsyD?

As a school counselor, I saw how underserved communities, especially Latino families, faced barriers when trying to navigate systems and access the support their children needed. This inspired me to pursue a PsyD to deepen my expertise and better advocate for students using assessment and intervention.

What made your experience in the PsyD program special?

CU Denver’s bilingual school psychology track opened the door for me to learn from incredible supervisors within Denver Public Schools. I gained so much knowledge about conducting culturally responsive assessments, which deeply aligned with my values and my commitment to serving the Latino community.

What does it feel like to be at the point of graduation?

Liberating and empowering! I feel confident in my skill set to thrive both in my private practice and in school-based settings.

What is your favorite memory at CU Denver?

Some of my favorite memories were when we came together as a cohort to collaborate on projects, share jokes, laugh together, confide in one another, and have class potlucks. This built strong relationships that made it possible for me to persevere through challenges.

What was your favorite course? Why?

It’s hard to choose, but I can narrow it down to two: the Neurosequential Model of Education (NME) and Biological and Neuropsychological Bases of Behavior. These courses taught me to connect brain development to how children learn, grow, and regulate emotions. NME especially shaped how I view learning through the lens of regulation, sequence, and the power of safe and supportive relationships.

Would you recommend the PsyD program to others?

Absolutely. If you’re someone who feels called to make a meaningful difference in the lives of toddlers, children, and adolescents—especially those from historically underserved communities—this program will give you the tools to do just that. It will challenge you to think critically, reflect deeply, and grow not just as a practitioner, but as a person.

What advice would you give a prospective student?

Stay grounded in your values, remain humble, be patient (this too shall pass), lean on your cohort, and don’t be afraid to bring your full self to work. That’s where the real learning happens.

What’s next for Devin?

Devin is looking ahead with excitement and purpose. “I’m excited to build my private practice to partner with schools and the legal system,” he says. “I’m looking for out-of-the-box solutions to help communities heal and students thrive.”

He’ll also return to CU Denver next spring, but this time, as a professor, ready to give back to the next generation of future school psychologists.